Chicago Real Estate Blog - Helaine Cohen

LOOK: An Exclusive Sneak Peak at Aerial Shots From Iwan Baan's Upcoming Exhibit During the Chicago Architecture Biennial

Posted by Helaine Cohen on June 6th, 2015

There’s something magical about aerial photography, especially when it comes to urban areas in which we live, work, and play. With the growing popularity of personal drones, the art of aerial photography has become increasing popular among the general public, not to mention much easier to do.

But like anything, when aerial photography is left to the professionals, it’s usually even more stunning than one can expect. As documented by Chicago Magazine, the Chicago Architecture Biennial commissioned Iwan Baan to photograph the Windy City’s skyline for an exhibit that will be on display from October 3rd to January 3rd. And for those of us who can’t wait to see some of his breathtaking shots of our great city, they provided us with an exclusive sneak peak of…

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River North’s Best Steakhouses

Posted by Helaine Cohen on June 3rd, 2015

Chicago is full of great restaurants, and the River North neighborhood is no different.  In fact we found some of Chicago’s best steakhouses in this part of town.

Chicago Cut Steakhouse

With incredible river views, Chicago Cut Steakhouse really packs in the crowds.  Open every day of the week from morning until late at night, the restaurant even features its own dry-aging room and butcher on-site.  While the location mostly serves steak, Chicago Cut Steakhouse also serves fresh seafood and includes an extensive wine list.   

Fogo de Chao

For a unique twist, head over to Fogo de Chao, a Brazilian steakhouse famous for its gaucho chefs and skillfully carved portions.  Expect to taste such delicacies as beef ancho, picanha and costela.  With unique…

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Chicago Real Estate Market Update: 2nd Quarter 2015

Posted by Helaine Cohen on May 31st, 2015

As we look at how the Chicago real estate market is faring through the 2nd Quarter of 2015, there’s lots of positive things to be excited about as we approach the halfway point for the year. In the 9 county Chicagoland area, the median price back in March was $204,000—up roughly 16.6% from $1750,000 in March 2014. Furthermore, in just Chicago, the median home price in March was set at $263,079—up nearly 12% from $235,000 in March 2014.

Luxury home sales are also on the rise around Chicago, which are classified as homes sold for $1 million or more. According to some statistics, 18% more luxury units were sold in Chicago over the 2nd Quarter this year from 2014, while increases all over the Chicagoland area were recorded as well.

Historically low interest…

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A Look at Some of the Most Popular Exhibits at Chicago's Childrent's Museum

Posted by Helaine Cohen on May 29th, 2015

If you’ve never been to Chicago’s Children’s Museum, most people will tell you that it’s among the country’s best. Conveniently located at Navy Pier, there’s so many things to see and do both inside the museum and out, making for quite an experience for visitors of all ages. Like most museums in Chicago and around the U.S., exhibits are constantly changing and evolving to maximize each visitor’s experience, as well as to keep those who have been here coming back. But if you’re interested in what the Chicago Children’s Museum has to offer right now, here’s a look at just some of our favorite exhibitions:

Boats

New for the summer season, Boats is a fun-filled play area for kids pre-K through early elementary ages. This new exhibit offers a unique…

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The Sinclair in Chicago's Gold Coast Still Moving Forward

Posted by Helaine Cohen on May 19th, 2015

Two years after full renderings first came out on a proposed high-rise, plans are finally moving forward on the grand project near the corner of Division and Clark.  This Gold Coast tower originally included 42 stories and was dubbed by neighbors the Tower of Jewel.  It’s now down to 35 stories and the project goes by the name, The Sinclair.

In June of this year crews began demolishing the existing building, as well as some surrounding buildings to make way for construction.  The tower, designed by Solomon Cordwell Buenz, is seeking LEED certification.  In addition, a 7,000 square foot green roof will top it off.  There will also be a 22,000 square foot green roof on top of the Jewel-Osco grocery.

With room for 390 units, the tower will house studios and…

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Plans For Luxurious 27-Unit Strata Announced For River North

Posted by Helaine Cohen on May 9th, 2015

Although it seems like much of the development news around downtown Chicago still relates to luxury rentals and high-rise apartments, a striking new boutique building over in River North is quietly making its way onto the local real estate landscape.

According to reports, sales for a new 27-unit luxury condo building at 847 N. Larrabee are expected to begin sometime this summer, which are being described as having a “modern European design.” Called Strata, Domus Group is behind this dynamic new project, with units ranging between $799,000 for a 3-bedrooms to just over $2 million for a 3,500 square foot full floor residence.

Much like the interior, the building’s exterior, which consists of three six-story structures that are now all seemingly tied…

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Why Adams and Sangamon Park Makes Living in the West Loop Special

Posted by Helaine Cohen on May 6th, 2015

Originally named after Adams and Sangamon Streets, the corner in which it is located, Mary Bartelme Park now goes by the namesake of the first woman to become judge in Illinois.  The nearly one-and-a-half acre park is right in the middle of the West Loop, bringing history and modern design elements together all in one special location.

The park includes a children’s play area, open lawn, plus a fountain plaza providing cool misting stations for enjoying the hot summer days.  There’s even a dog park within the location for our four-legged friends.  The play area is uniquely designed so that it feeds off a child’s imagination, while the dog park includes enough room for your pet to exercise, plus steps, ramps and ledges.  Meanwhile, visitors have the option…

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Where to Take Mom For a Mother's Day Brunch in Downtown Chicago

Posted by Helaine Cohen on May 4th, 2015

If you’re still on the fence about what to do for Mother’s Day this year, you can’t go wrong with taking mom out for a nice brunch here in the heart of downtown Chicago. As just about any Chicagoan will tell you, the restaurant scene here ranks among the best in the world, and while there’s certainly a lot of praise when it comes to trendy steakhouses, there’s also a pretty good selection of brunch spots in town that definitely won’t leave you disappointed.

So, when it’s time to treat your mom this Mother’s Day, here’s a look at only a few suggestions on where to go for a great brunch experience;

BRUNCH - 644 N Orleans

If a place is actually called Brunch, chances are they serve a pretty good brunch—and that’s certainly the case at this River North…

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A Look at What’s Currently on the MLS at 111 W. Wacker

Posted by Helaine Cohen on April 30th, 2015

One of Chicago’s newest downtown residential buildings offers a desirable location overlooking the Chicago River, plus close proximity to high-end restaurants, attractions and live theatre.  Completed in 2014, the 111 W. Wacker building includes the choice of convertibles, studios, plus one-, two-, and three-bedroom units, including penthouse homes.

Along with an outdoor sundeck, indoor swimming pool, fitness center and theatre, this luxury building also offers game and party rooms plus garage parking and a 24-hour doorman.  As well, this is a pet-friendly building.

Currently there are seven rental units available at 111 W. Wacker on the MLS.  They range from a one-bedroom/one-bath unit starting at 627 square feet to two two-bedroom/two-bath units of nearly…

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Best Picnic Spots in Downtown Chicago

Posted by Helaine Cohen on April 30th, 2015

Chicago may be a large, vibrant city full of fantastic dining options, but it’s still a great place to kick back and relax with a picnic lunch.  We uncovered a few of the best spots.

Lake Shore Park

With more than five acres of tennis courts, softball diamonds and a playground, Lake Shore Park is a great place to bring the family.  Although close to the hustle and bustle of the Magnificent Mile, the park also offers up a relaxed, family-friendly setting, right in downtown.

Washington Square Park

With a floral garden, reconstructed fountain and a convenient location near Newberry Library, Washington Square Park is another great spot for a picnic.  The park is small, but provides an ideal location in the Near North community.

Maggie Daley Park

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